Next Nissan GT-R Could Be Closely Related To The Current Generation

The long-awaited Nissan GT-R successor might not be as different from the current R35 generation as we expected, according to a new report coming from Japan.

The GT-R R35 is one of the longest-running models on sale. It was first unveiled back in 2007 and even though Nissan has given it numerous updates since, with the most extensive being the 2016 facelift, it is long due for a full redesign. However, Nissan might be planning an evolution rather than a revolution for the R36 generation – at least on the mechanical aspect.

According to Japan’s Best Car, following the example of the upcoming Z which is based on a revised 370Z platform, the new GT-R will feature a completely redesigned body. Similarly, the interior will be overhauled to meet modern technology and safety standards, with a digital cockpit and Nissan’s latest infotainment.

However, under the skin, the R36 will be a largely updated R35, featuring several chassis modifications, new components, and a fresh suspension tune. The Japanese news outlet claims that it will also carry over the VR38DETT engine without the rumored mild-hybrid system, despite the upcoming strict emission and noise regulations. The updated twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 mill is also expected to produce close to the current GT-R NISMO’s 592 hp (441 kW / 600 PS) and 481 lb-ft (652 Nm) of torque which will be sent to all four wheels through an automatic gearbox.

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We don’t know how Nissan is going to comply with the emission standards that have caused many automakers to electrify or completely phase out their ICE performance models. Maybe the automaker is betting on its new lineup comprising of fully electric and hybrid models to enable it to have a low enough CO2 footprint to comply with the ever tightening legislation. Even if that’s the case, it raises questions concerns whether the new GT-R will be available in Europe where more and more countries are pledging to ban the sales of ICE vehicles altogether.

The mild-hybrid technology which was said to appear in the last version of the R35 will probably be saved for the future, before the GT-R eventually transitions to all-electric power.

The same report claims that the GT-R R35 will be discontinued in the fall of 2022 and its successor will appear in early 2023, though we’ve yet to hear something official.